Composting – Commercial “Super – Charger” to Aid

Q: In my subdivision all the homes are on septic systems. I have a small compost heap going. Can I put the commercial septic tank super-charger product on my compost heap? The label says it contains bacteria to help Mother Nature.

A: There is no advantage to adding commercial bacteria containing products to either your septic tank or your compost pile. The organisms that break down material in a septic tank are already there in abundance. You add a load of them every time you flush the toilet. Likewise, naturally occurring fungi and bacteria live throughout a compost pile. They come in on the leaves. “Compost starter” products might add a bit of nitrogen to kick start the composting process, but you can accomplish the same much cheaper by scattering a handful of fertilizer on top of the pile.